1) The difference between the disputed and undisputed Pauline letters
The Pauline letters are a collection of 13 books in the New Testament traditionally attributed to
the apostle Paul. However, scholars debate the authenticity of some of these letters.
Undisputed Pauline Letters:
Romans
1 Corinthians
2 Corinthians
Galatians
Philippians
1 Thessalonians
2 Thessalonians
Philemon
These letters are generally accepted as written by Paul himself, based on strong internal and
external evidence.
Disputed Pauline Letters:
Ephesians
Colossians
1 Timothy
2 Timothy
Titus
These letters are considered disputed because of:
Different writing style (Linguistic composition):
Some biblical scholars argue that the language and style of these letters differ significantly from
the undisputed letters.
Theological differences:
Some of the theological themes in these letters are not found in the undisputed letters.
Historical context:
The historical context of these letters is less clearer than the undisputed letters.
While these letters are disputed, they are still considered part of the New Testament canon
and are valued by many Christians.
2) WHAT do you understand by words NT and OT? Write out the differences &
similarities
New Testament
The New Testament is the second part of the Christian Bible, focusing on the life, teachings, and
ministry of Jesus Christ, the establishment of the early Christian church, and the coming of the
Kingdom of God. It’s divided into four sections:
Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) Acts of the Apostles, Pauline Epistles, general Epistles
& Revelation.
The New Testament is considered by Christians to be the inspired word of God, offering
guidance for living a life of faith and hope in Jesus Christ.
Old Testament
The Old Testament is the first part of the Christian Bible, and the entirety of the Hebrew Bible.
It tells the story of God’s relationship with humanity from the creation of the world to the time
of the Babylonian exile (roughly 1500 BC to 500 BC). It consists of:
The Law (Torah), The Historical Books, The Poetic Books, The Prophets.
The Old Testament is considered by Jews and Christians to be a sacred text, offering insights
into God’s character, his relationship with humanity, and his plan for the world.
Differences:
Period of composition:
The OT covers the history and teachings of the Israelites from the creation of the world to the
time of the Babylonian exile (roughly 1500 BC to 500 BC). The NT focuses on the life, teachings,
and ministry of Jesus Christ and the early Christian church (roughly 0 AD to 100 AD).
Focus:
The OT emphasizes the law, prophets, and history of the Israelites. The NT emphasizes the life,
death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the establishment of the Christian church, and the
coming of the Kingdom of God.
God’s Covenant:
The OT focuses on God’s covenant with the Israelites, while the NT focuses on God’s new
covenant with all believers in Jesus Christ.
Similarities:
Monotheism (one God):
Both testaments affirm the existence of one God, the creator of all things.
Moral Law:
Both testaments contain moral laws and ethical teachings.
Promise of Salvation:
Both testaments speak of God’s promise of salvation for humanity.
Importance of Faith:
Both testaments emphasize the importance of faith in God.
The major point is that the NT is seen as the fulfillment of the OT, with Jesus Christ being the
ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises to his people.
3) How is OT important to the NT
The Old Testament is crucial to understanding the New Testament. It’s like the foundation upon
which the New Testament is built. Here’s how:
Fulfillment:
The New Testament is seen as the fulfillment of the promises and prophecies found in the Old
Testament. Jesus Christ is often referred to as the “Messiah” prophesied in the Old Testament,
and his life, death, and resurrection are seen as the culmination of God’s plan for salvation.
Context:
The New Testament writers assumed their readers were familiar with the Old Testament. They
often quoted, alluded to, and built upon Old Testament stories and teachings. Understanding
the Old Testament helps us grasp the meaning and significance of the New Testament.
Continuity:
The New Testament doesn’t replace the Old Testament; it builds upon it. Both testaments
share core beliefs about God, humanity, and salvation. The New Testament clarifies and
expands upon the Old Testament, offering a deeper understanding of God’s love and plan for
humanity.
The Old Testament is the story of God’s promises, and the New Testament is the story of those
promises being fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
